Author

Courtney Jerome

Courtney Jerome

With 15 years of professional media experience, Courtney Jerome has found a passion for storytelling and showcasing our region in a positive light. She's written stories for television broadcasts, numerous magazines, and digital publications. In addition, she owns a boutique creative marketing agency that focuses on social media, photo, and video storytelling for small businesses across Michigan and the country — courtneyjeromemedia.com. Contact Courtney, the managing editor of Epicenter, at editor@epicentermtpleasant.com.

Courtney Jerome's Latest Articles

Mt. Pleasant StoryWalk
How StoryWalk brings books to life outdoors

Whether through children’s tales, Braille features, or QR-linked ASL resources, the StoryWalk initiative opens doors to literacy and provides a creative way for the community to connect with stories outside.

PACE Central Michigan
Aging in place with dignity

PACE Central Michigan is helping seniors stay in their homes longer with dignity. By combining medical, social, and daily living support under one coordinated system, their programs reduce stress for families while improving care.

WEB builds confidence in middle school as students support students

Starting middle school can be intimidating, but Mt. Pleasant Middle School’s “Where Everybody Belongs” (WEB) program helps ease the transition. With 45 eighth graders serving as mentors for 242 new sixth graders, WEB fosters confidence, belonging, and leadership.

Joe Hertler’s CMU beginnings lead back to Main Street:

From CMU open mic nights to major festival stages, Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers return to Mt. Pleasant Aug. 14 with their signature high-energy blend of rock, soul, funk, and pop for the Max & Emily’s Summer Concert Series.

Launching a legacy on the Chippewa River

Nearly three decades ago, Mike Anderson launched a side venture that turned into a beloved summer staple in Mt. Pleasant: Chippewa River Outfitters. Now in its 29th season, the rental business provides kayaks, canoes, tubes—and unforgettable memories—for families, CMU alumni, and visitors alike. From full-service float trips to moonlight paddles and rustic camping experiences, learn how Anderson's passion for outdoor fun and community connection continues to ripple through the region.

Small Town, Big Market: Wildflower & Wren returns to downtown Clare

Wildflower & Wren Markets is bringing its “Small Town USA Market” back to downtown Clare for the third year on Sunday, August 10, 2025. Featuring nearly 40 local vendors offering vintage goods, boutique items, handmade products, and farm-fresh favorites, the event draws hundreds of visitors and boosts the local economy. Held at the historic Johnston Elevator, the one-day market will also feature food trucks, live music, and community spirit—all organized by Clare local Lacey Badelt.

From local classrooms to college credit: Mid Michigan College’s program gets national nod

Mid Michigan College has once again earned national recognition for its commitment to educational quality. As the first public institution in Michigan to receive NACEP accreditation for its concurrent enrollment program, the college has now secured continued accreditation into 2032. This program allows high school students across nine counties to earn college credit while still in high school—taught by their own instructors, in familiar classrooms.

Answer: This Alma grad is about to be on “Jeopardy!”

Pete Johnston, an Alma native and 2007 Alma College graduate, is set to appear on the iconic quiz show Jeopardy! on Tuesday, July 15. Inspired by years of family trivia nights, a high school Quiz Bowl run, and Alma College’s liberal arts approach, Johnston shares what it felt like to stand on stage—and how host, Ken Jennings, helped calm the nerves.

From Chickens to Commerce: How Renaissance students hatched a business plan

What began as a hands-on classroom experiment at Renaissance Public School Academy quickly evolved into a thriving student-led venture. Blending agricultural learning with entrepreneurship, students are hatching chickens, harvesting produce, and managing retail sales at the Mt. Pleasant Farmers’ Market. But the most remarkable growth may be what’s happening behind the scenes. With community partners stepping in to support and guide them, these young innovators are proving that with the right environment, big ideas can grow from humble beginnings.

Mt. Pleasant Police launches new security camera database to speed investigations

The Mt. Pleasant Police Department’s new voluntary security camera database has already attracted 45 participants in its first month. By allowing investigators to quickly identify available footage when incidents occur, the program aims to save critical time during active investigations. Residents and businesses can opt in at any time and retain full control over their footage.

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